All the
carmakers in India have started updating their BS-IV models to BS-VI as the
deadline is just a little over four months away now. Latest to join the list is
Isuzu, which has announced that it is going to put an end to the production of
the current BS-IV models by end-2019. This move will allow the automaker to
clear up the BS-IV inventory well before the deadline and thus, prevent
end-time stock-clearance losses.
Isuzu has
also announced that with the BS-VI switch, its entire product portfolio, which
is strictly based on diesel engines, will witness a substantial hike in
pricing. The ex-showroom price of the D-Max V-Cross pickup and MU-X SUV are
expected to shoot-up by as much as INR 3-4 lakh. On the other hand, the price
of the commercial models, such as D-Max Regular Cab and D-Max S-Cab, may rise
up by INR 1-1.5 lakh. Since Isuzu's whole line-up is diesel-powered, its
vehicles will see much steeper price hike compared to the petrol vehicles,
since it is comparatively costlier to upgrade diesel engines.
Only
recently, the India-bound 2020 D-Max was unveiled in Thailand. The full-size
pickup truck has been completely overhauled. It has now turned into a more
efficient and safer vehicle featuring improved driveability. It is based on a
new Isuzu Dynamic Drive Platform. The ladder frame has been majorly updated for
improved driving stability and reduced noise and vibration levels. The
Thailand-spec model is available with two engine options - an updated RZ4E-TC
1.9-litre and a new 4JJ3-TCX 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel unit.
The India
launch of the 2020 Isuzu D-Max will happen next year.
